Passenger Ferry
The symbol indicates a passenger ferry
When You See This Sign
When you see sign S13 you should slow down and expect pedestrians and cyclists boarding or leaving the ferry. Follow any markings and staff instructions and do not attempt to drive on board unless it is explicitly allowed.
Rules & Regulations
- Sign S13 indicates the location of a passenger ferry — a ferry intended for pedestrians and usually cyclists, not for ordinary motor vehicles. If a car ferry applies, a different sign is shown.
- The sign's purpose is informational; it does not grant right of way or impose a duty to yield by itself. You must follow applicable right-of-way rules and local instructions at the ferry site.
- Follow the directions and signals given by ferry staff or temporary traffic signs during boarding and disembarking. Incorrect maneuvers near the ferry ramp can be dangerous.
- Parking or stopping may be prohibited in areas near ferry landings — respect local parking rules and markings so as not to obstruct boarding or disembarking.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce speed well in advance when you see the sign and be prepared to stop for pedestrians and cyclists who are crossing or waiting at the ramp.
- Keep extra watch for vulnerable road users (pedestrians and cyclists) and be prepared for them to move unpredictably when the ferry arrives or departs.
- Follow queuing instructions and wait in a marked queue or parking area instead of blocking the road or ferry ramp.
- If you are unsure whether your vehicle is allowed on the ferry — ask the ferry staff or read local signs before attempting to board.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that a passenger ferry means cars can automatically drive on board — it usually applies only to pedestrians and bicycles.
- Interpreting the sign as a yield or stop sign. S13 only informs about the location; right-of-way rules are governed by other signs and traffic regulations.
- Failing to wait for instructions from ferry staff and attempting to maneuver near the ramp, which can create dangerous situations.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Passenger Ferry
What does this symbol showing a small boat and passengers mean?
- A The symbol indicates a passenger ferry (ferry for pedestrians/passengers).
- B The symbol indicates a vehicle ferry for motor vehicles.
- C The symbol shows a harbor for commercial ships.
- D The symbol warns of waves and sea breeze.
Exam Tip
A common exam trap is asking whether motor vehicles may travel on a passenger ferry — remember that S13 refers to a passenger ferry (pedestrians/bicycles) and does not give cars the right to drive on board. Questions may also try to make you believe that the sign grants right of way — answer that it only informs about the location.
Did You Know?
Informational ferry signs in Sweden are blue with a white symbol; S13 is often used in the archipelago and at inland lake ferries where motor vehicles are transported separately or not at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my car onto a passenger ferry marked with S13?
No, a passenger ferry (S13) usually refers to pedestrians and passenger transport, not ordinary motor vehicles. If vehicles are allowed, a separate sign or information will be shown at the ferry site.
Do I have to stop immediately when I see the sign?
You do not necessarily have to stop just because the sign is there, but you should reduce speed and be prepared to stop for pedestrians or cyclists. Follow local signs and the instructions of staff at the ferry site.
Does the sign give right of way at the ferry entrance or exit?
No, the sign is informational and does not regulate right of way itself. Right of way is governed by other traffic rules or specific road signs at the location.
Where are passenger ferry signs most commonly found in Sweden?
Passenger ferry signs are often located near coastal communities, in the archipelago, and at inland lake ferries where pedestrians and cyclists are transported across bodies of water. They indicate where the ferry landing is and where you should wait or board.
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